China Plans AI-Driven Geological Map Of Entire Mars Surface By 2028

China plans to complete a geological map covering the entire surface of Mars by the end of 2028, with the project positioned as part of its wider space rivalry with the United States.

Map planned as global reference

Hou Zengqian, chief scientist of China’s next Mars mission known as Tianwen-3, on Monday said the map would aim to become the global standard for the Martian geological ages.

State news agency Xinhua reported that it would be the first AI-driven geological map of Mars.

The map is also being described as an important part of preparations for the Tianwen-3 mission.

According to the report, the planned map would cover the entire surface of the planet rather than selected regions.

Zhu Rong findings to be included

Hou said the map would incorporate findings from Zhu Rong, the first rover China sent to Mars.

That inclusion links China’s earlier Mars rover work with preparations for its next mission, Tianwen-3.

The project comes as Mars increasingly features in China’s space rivalry with the United States.

The stated target is to complete the geological map by the end of 2028.

If completed as described by Xinhua and Hou, the map would combine AI-driven geological mapping with data from China’s Mars exploration programme.

Source: South China Morning Post